A scratchy throat, a persistent sniffle – the arrival of these unwelcome guests (read: symptoms) can leave you wondering: is it a cold or an allergy? Especially in this season when both run rampant. Deciphering the culprit behind your discomfort can be surprisingly tricky. Both colds and allergies share a cast of common symptoms, making it easy to mistake one for the other. But fret not! While the distinction may seem subtle at first, key differences in cause, duration, and additional symptoms can help you crack the code. Dr Krishna Prasad, consultant - paediatrician at Motherhood Hospitals, Electronic City, explained the core distinction between the two is that "the common cold is caused by viruses, whereas allergies are triggered by your immune system's overreaction to harmless substances like pollen or dust." Seasonality matters The timing of your symptoms can also offer clues. Colds are most prevalent during winter months, while allergies often flare up during specific seasons when pollen counts are high; like in March, April. Duration of discomfort The duration of your symptoms is another distinguishing factor. Colds typically run their course within 3-10 days, responding well to rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications. Allergies, on the other hand, can linger for weeks until the triggering allergen is removed. Unique symptom sets While both colds and allergies can cause a runny nose and sneezing, specific symptoms can help differentiate them: Colds: Often accompanied by fever, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. Allergies: Frequently involve itchy, watery eyes, puffy eyelids, and skin rashes. Colds rarely cause these. Here's a quick reference table to summarise the key differences: Feature Common Cold Allergies Cause Viruses (often rhinoviruses) Immune system reaction to allergens Contagious Yes No Duration 3-10 days Weeks (until allergen removed) Fever Sometimes Not common Sore thorat Often Not common Body aches Often Not common Itchy eyes Not common Often Runny/stuffy nose Yes Yes Treatment Rest, fluids, over-the-counter meds Nasal saline, antihistamines, etc. When in doubt, consult a doctor If you're unsure whether you have a cold or any allergy, or if your symptoms persist for more than a week or two, consult your doctor. They can provide a diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment plan for your specific condition.
